Complexities of the Collective: Balancing Individual and Family Interests

For many, family philanthropy presents an opportunity to create a shared experience, unifying the family by working together toward a lasting legacy of impact. Family philanthropy can also give participants an opportunity to explore and cultivate their personal philanthropic passions. Yet there is an inherent tension between these two goals, and many families struggle with how to address it—especially as families become larger and more complex over time. In this session, we explore how families navigate this dilemma, hearing from the experiences of peer family funders and researchers examining this issue in a study of family foundations.

About this Series

The monthly Fundamentals of Family Philanthropy webinar series provides guidance on the core tenets of effective family philanthropy—from motivations and values to governance, grantmaking, and succession. The series equips giving families with the latest information on evergreen topics in the donor lifecycle through practical takeaways and diverse family stories that illustrate important practices. Designed for seasoned practitioners and newcomers alike, the series is available to our Friends of the Family and Partner Subscriber organizations.

More Fundamentals

For a refresher on this topic, watch the recording of the 2021 Fundamentals webinars on philanthropic purpose and see additional resources here.